COPEF TRAINING SKILLS

We are seeking £5000 to deliver free English language (ESOL) classes and a mental wellbeing support programme at our community centre local 236 Coldharbour Lane. This initiative will support, African, refugees and asylum seekers and, French, Portuguese and Latino Community who regularly access our Community Legal Advice and Representation Services.

Many of our service users face significant challenges, including language barriers, trauma from displacement, poor mental health, and difficulty navigating public systems. These barriers often prevent them from integrating into society, securing employment, and fully participating in community life.

What the project will deliver:

·        Weekly English (ESOL) classes focused on practical communication skills for everyday life, work, and community participation.

·        Group wellbeing sessions to promote emotional resilience, stress management, and social connection.

·        One-to-one advice and signposting to housing, legal, and health services.

·        Peer support groups to reduce isolation and encourage friendship among participants.

·        Learning materials, translation support, and refreshments to ensure accessibility.

Who the project will support:

·        Refugees and asylum seekers, particularly those facing disadvantage, trauma, and language barriers.

·        Vulnerable individuals from Black, migrant, and minority backgrounds living in Lambeth and surrounding boroughs.

What difference it will make:

·        Improved English language skills, enabling participants to communicate effectively, access services, and seek employment.

·        Reduced isolation and improved mental wellbeing through group participation and peer networks.

·        Increased confidence and self-reliance, empowering individuals to engage actively in their new communities.

·        Greater access to local opportunities and better integration into society.

How this funding will help the community:

The funding will allow us to hire qualified ESOL tutors and mental wellbeing facilitators, purchase learning materials, and cover venue and outreach costs. This investment will strengthen our existing support hub, making it a welcoming space where refugees and asylum seekers can learn, heal, and connect.

Why we believe the project will succeed:

COPEF has over 13 years of experience supporting vulnerable communities in Lambeth through legal advice, training, and wellbeing programmes. Our trusted presence and partnerships with local councils, community groups, and health services ensure strong referral pathways and consistent engagement.

Our previous ESOL and wellbeing pilot received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with 90% of participants reporting increased confidence and improved social connections. Building on this success, this expanded programme will meet the growing demand for integrated learning and wellbeing support.

This project will create a safe, inclusive space for refugees and asylum seekers to rebuild their confidence, improve their language skills, and strengthen their mental wellbeing laying the foundation for long-term integration, stability, and success.

At present, the centre receives a large number of community members accessing our services, including refugees, asylum seekers, and members of the Latino community who face language barriers and often require interpreters. However, these groups still need to improve their English skills to become independent and fully integrated into society.

Your support will help us provide free English classes and mental wellbeing programmes, preventing isolation and empowering many people in our community to build confidence, improve communication, and access better opportunities.